NASA Will Send 3D Sensing Project Tango Phones Into Space

On the 11th of July, Project Tango, Google’s 3D Sensing phone, will be sent into space by NASA. The phone uses multiple cameras and sensors to create a fully three dimensional map of its surroundings. The phones will power and control NASA’s Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites (SPHERES) robots on the International Space Station.

Using its motion tracking camera and the IR sensor, the SPHERES will be able to create a 3D map of their surrounding area and navigate with extreme precision, especially to areas where it would be too dangerous or impossible for astronauts to go.

Google is also teaming up with LG to develop a Project Tango–powered tablet and hopes that these devices are in mass production as early as next year.